Thursday, July 16, 2009

Bon Odori 2009 in Malaysia - Sat, July 18

The above shots are of last year's Bon Odori Festival held at the Matsushita Centre, now renamed Panasonic Sports Complex.

Have you been to a Bon Odori Festival? If you have, would you like to go again? And if you have not, would you like to attend one at least for the fun and experience of it?

Yes, I said 'fun' because a Bon Odori Festival can be a rather fun and enjoyable affair. I have not been to one but a girlfriend who attends it every year is one devoted fan of this yearly fiesta.

Bon Odori is a Japanese celebration but it is also celebrated in other countries including Brazil, China, the United States and Canada, and yes, even in Malaysia where it is hosted in the island state of Penang and Selangor.

Bon Odori in Malaysia is the brainchild of the Japanese Expatriate & Immigration Society in Malaysia. The celebration here is less associated with the religion (Buddhism) but more with the Japanese culture as it is held mainly to expose locals to a part of Japanese culture. The festival provides the experience of a variety of Japanese food & drinks, art and dance.

Would like to experience Bon Odori in Malaysia? This year's celebration in Shah Alam will be held this Saturday, July 18. Details are as follows:

Here are a few things you may want to keep in mind to make your participation a pleasant and enjoyable memory-making experience.

● Strictly no smoking except for designated areas.● No high-heels allowed in the dancing field.● No wearing stuff like Goth lolita and any stuff that are considered not polite you would not want people to insult your ancestors would you.● NO COSPLAYING. Respect the Japanese culture and tradition please.